By: Amanda Froelich,
Health advocates have been aware for a long time now that food has integral importance in fueling and aiding the body in healing itself. Given an abundant amount of vitamins, minerals, essential fatty acids, and amino acids (the building blocks of protein) – all of which can be easily found in a plethora of fruits, vegetables, nuts, seeds, legumes, grains, and seaweeds – the human vessel is capable of regeneration. Science is only beginning to understand the incredible properties plant-based foods hold, and that’s why creating food with them is a dynamic combo for those seeking to create their best health, and for all who just love a nice treat now and again.
When it comes to preventing degeneration of the body through food, there is no better way than to use them in their wholesome, unprocessed, and unheated state. The recipe below is abundant in two recently studied ingredients, coconut oil and peanut butter, which have been found to efficiently slow the rate of Alzheimer’s disease.
Studied by many scientists and researchers, it has become an accepted truth that the two ingredients form one heck of a duo – and not just in a culinary sense.
Coconut oil continues to be touted for its benefits – mainly its medium-chain triglycerides which are easily converted into energy and fuel the brain. Because the “good fats” are metabolized differently than other plant-based fats, there is no need to fear weight gain with this medicinal oil. Research notes that it is incredibly beneficial in inhibit brain degeneration, and in effect slow the progression of Alzheimer’s. More information can be found here.
And peanut butter, the favorite treat loved by most, has been shown repeatedly in many studies to slow cognitive decline, and in effect reduce the diagnosis of disease in its early stages. Not only is it tasty, but it is full of healthy fats which feed the brain and nourish the body.
And the great thing about these two foods is that only about 1-2 tablespoons are needed per day for one to experience the benefits. It is essential, however, that organic, natural brands are consumed for one to create their best health. Commercialized, pesticide-grown peanut butter can be high in toxic ingredients and high-sugar additives, therefore a pure, organic jar is best. Similarly, cold-pressed, organic coconut oil is optimal. Choosing high quality ingredients will supply your body with its best health in the long run.
Decrease the incidence of Alzheimer’s in your family by treating everyone you love with these {raw, vegan} Coconut Peanut Butter Cups.
Raw Coconut Peanut Butter Cups
Serving Size: 20 Cups
Preparation Time: 15-25 Minutes
Ingredients:
- 1 cup coconut chunks/shreds
- 3/4 cup raw oats (or almonds)
- 1/4 cup maple syrup
- 1/4 tsp cinnamon
- 1 tsp vanilla extract
- 1/2 cup peanut butter
- 1/8 cup melted coconut oil
- Sea salt (optional)
- 1/2 batch of raw chocolate (or 2 melted dark chocolate bars)
Directions
1) Food process all ingredients (except raw chocolate) until it can be pressed together. If it is too dry, add some dates or peanut butter.
2) Press your cup ingredients into lined cupcake tins, leaving just a little bit of room on the top for the chocolate. (If you do not have liners, sprinkle some coconut shreds on the bottom to reduce stickiness).
3) Pour the chocolate over the cups. Decorate with nuts (optional). Leave in the fridge overnight, and before serving, sprinkle some sea salt on top.
Enjoy!
Allowing food to be thy medicine is easier than ever. Seek recipes that are rich in unprocessed, wholesome, plant-based ingredients, and watch your health bloom!
